BIOGRAPHY

A relentless fighter that encapsulates every meaning of the word “hardcore”. Shibata debuted for New Japan in October 1999 and together with Hiroshi Tanahashi and Shinsuke Nakamura he became known as one of the “New Three Musketeers”. In 2005 he fought amongst various pro wrestling organizations and in 2007 turned towards the world of mixed martial arts to hone his skills. Upon his return to NJPW in August of 2012, his growth as a fighter was clear as he utilized sharp blows and targeted submissions. Shibata has had a longstanding friendly rivalry with fellow wrestler Hirooki Goto, going back to when they were high school classmates.

A relentless fighter that encapsulates every meaning of the word “hardcore”. Shibata debuted for New Japan in October 1999 and together with Hiroshi Tanahashi and Shinsuke Nakamura he became known as one of the “New Three Musketeers”. In 2005 he fought amongst various pro wrestling organizations and in 2007 turned towards the world of mixed martial arts to hone his skills. Upon his return to NJPW in August of 2012, his growth as a fighter was clear as he utilized sharp blows and targeted submissions. Shibata has had a longstanding friendly rivalry with fellow wrestler Hirooki Goto, going back to when they were high school classmates.